Established in August 1982 by the Provincial Government, OTF initially provided grants to support social services in Ontario. Eligible organizations and their branches or chapters supplying services across the province were eligible for OTF funding in order to build and strengthen their communities. Our aim was to provide a granting program that was helpful, informed about the field and considerate of grantees. We also wanted to foster grantee organizations’ independence in a tangible way, where the impact of grants would strengthen them long after grant dollars were spent.

By 1987, OTF’s funding was increased to $17 million and the Regional Grants Program was introduced. This new program provided smaller grants of up to two years for local social service organizations that were not affiliated with province-wide organizations. Starting in Northern Ontario, it rolled out across the province over the next six years.

The introduction of OTF’s website, www.trilliumfoundation.org in 1995 provided an effective opportunity for OTF to liaise and interact with the community. This proved to be a valuable tool. Our award winning website has made it possible for grantees and potential grantees to obtain information about our organization, grantees and OTF’s special projects and programs.

In 1999, the Foundation’s budget received a ten-fold increase to $100 million resulting in a very dramatic change in the organization. The extended funding enabled OTF to expand its funding activities to three new sectors, adding arts and culture, sports and recreation and the environment to the existing human and social services sector. The Foundation also underwent a strategic change in operations, shifting from a largely centralized operation in Toronto to a broad community-based organization with 16 offices across the province. Staff and volunteer numbers grew in order to accommodate the expansion. Volunteers were appointed by the Ontario Government to serve on 16 Grant Review Teams to review grant applications and make recommendations for funding in the 16 geographic catchment areas.

OTF grants have been making a remarkable impact in communities all across the province, enabling Ontarians to work together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. Over the years we have built an organization of committed staff, experts in their field who complement more than 300 volunteers. We are grateful for the expertise, experiences and valuable knowledge both volunteer and staff bring to the grant review process, and appreciate their efforts which have helped make us one of Canada’s leading grantmaking Foundations today.

For 25 years, we have been committed to strengthening communities in Ontario and with a funding boost from the Ontario Government in 2007 we’re looking forward to making an even greater impact in the coming years.

The future of OTF and Ontario communities is bright.

Helen Burstyn Chair of the Board

L. Robin Cardozo Chief Executive Officer

     

25th Anniversary Celebration

On November 1st at the MaRS Centre in Toronto, the Foundation celebrated its 25th year of grantmaking with the brightest and the best of the great grants that were recognized in the 16 catchment areas throughout the province. A total of 25 awards including a Minister’s Award and an OTF Chair’s Award were announced to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of OTF grantees. Special guests included grantees, other funders, and former and current Board and Grant Review Team members.

Click here for photo highlights of the evening.